“If any man serves me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serves me, him will my Father honour.” (John 12:26 KJV)

           This verse is about following Jesus. How Jesus lived, taught, and was an example for us to follow—which involves self-discipline, self-denial, self-understanding.  

Self-discipline is the ability to push yourself to take action, stay motivated, and finish the task at hand, regardless of your physical or emotional state.  It means choosing long-term satisfaction over immediate temptation or discomfort.

           Self-denial means the act of willingly giving up your own desires, comforts, or interests for a higher purpose, moral principle, or the wellbeing of others.  It is a conscious choice to say “no” to oneself in order to say “yes” to a greater good.

           Self-understanding is a clear and accurate knowledge of your own character, actions, motives, and capabilities.  It means looking inward objectively to comprehend exactly who you are, why you react the way you do, and what truly drives you.

           When we accept Jesus as our Lord, we want to serve and follow Him.  We shift from intellectual belief that God exists to placing absolute trust, reliance, and commitment in God.  True belief is never just a thought; it is an active relationship that completely changes how a person lives.  

Thus, when this verse says, “…if any person serves me, that person will my Father honor” is true.  For God acknowledges and honors those who live their lives serving our Lord.  The hard part is truly living for Christ and staying true to what God has called you to be and to do.  That is where self-discipline, self-denial, and self-understanding come in. God Bless. Amen.

denise